Young people called Sternsingers (German for star singers) travel from door to door dressed as the Three Wise Men on January 6th (my birthday and also the Epiphany!) The star singers are often offered treats at the homes they visit, but they also collect money to donate to charity. To thank the people for the money and/or treats, the singers perform the traditional house blessing, by marking the year over the doorway with chalk.
marschmadness 